Growing demand for mobile device management systems

According to a compilation compiled by Worldmetrics experts, a laptop is stolen every 53 seconds in the US. As many as 25% of these devices are stolen from the workplace, and the average company loss associated with such an incident is $47,000. This is mainly due to the loss of intellectual property and costs associated with the data breach. The Worldmetrics website also reports that 52% of stolen devices are cell phones and 35% are laptops. These numbers alone indicate the huge security risks associated with mobile devices in companies. Additionally, businesses are vulnerable to cyber attacks. In 2023, Kaspersky recorded nearly 33.8 million attacks on mobile devices, a 50% increase over the previous year.

Both types of incidents - theft and cyber attacks - imply data loss costs that often exceed the value of the devices themselves. The facts show why implementing a security policy and launching an MDM (mobile device management) system for a company is becoming a necessity.

The number of incidents is increasing.

The growing number of cyber attacks is making it a priority to protect corporate data on mobile devices. According to Kaspersky's annual analysis of the cyber security picture, adware was the most common threat, accounting for 40.8% of all detected incidents.[3] In addition, phishing attacks on mobile devices are becoming increasingly common, with 80% of phishing sites designed to operate on both mobile and desktop devices. SMS phishing, also known as smishing, is six to 10 times more effective than phishing attacks via email.

Role of MDM systems

MDM systems are the answer to the above challenges. They allow companies to centrally manage mobile devices, regardless of their type and operating system. Key features of MDM systems include remote device management, which allows devices to be configured, updated and monitored remotely. The systems provide data security through data encryption, remote data wiping in the event of device loss, and protections against unauthorized access. They also enable application management, including installing, updating and deleting applications on mobile devices. MDM systems also offer features such as remote locking and wiping of data, which is crucial if a device is lost or stolen. Tools to ensure compliance with data protection regulations are also an integral part of MDM systems.

MDM systems and security

Securing mobile devices from cyber attacks is one of the most important aspects that MDM systems address. According to Verizon's 2023 report, 43% of all cyber attacks targeted mobile devices.[4] As a result, the use of MDM systems has become a key component of IT security strategies. MDMs offer advanced protection features that help secure corporate data and devices from threats. Data encryption ensures that data stored on devices is protected even if they are stolen or lost. If a device is lost, MDM systems allow all data to be wiped remotely, minimizing the risk of unauthorized use. MDM systems allow you to define and enforce access policies for data and applications, reducing the risk of unauthorized access. Constant monitoring of devices and the generation of alerts when suspicious activity is detected allows a quick response to potential threats. Regular software updates ensure that all devices are protected from the latest threats.

MDM in practice

MDM systems are widely used in various industries. An example is the logistics company, which, thanks to the Antumo MDM system, manages the fleet of devices used by drivers and carriers, providing secure access to company applications. Another example is medical facilities, where hospitals use MDM systems to protect patient data stored on tablets and smartphones used by medical staff. In financial institutions such as banks, these types of programs are used to manage employee devices, securing transactions and access to banking systems.

Antumo MDM at Ambro Group.

Implementation of MDM systems

Implementing an MDM system in a company requires careful planning and implementation. The first step is a needs analysis, which involves assessing what devices and operating systems are in use at the company and the specific needs for managing them. Then, choose the right MDM solution that best suits the company's needs. Antumo MDM offers a wide range of features that can be customized to meet different requirements.

The next step is to prepare a BYOD (Bring Your Own Devices) policy, which defines the rules for using private devices in the company. Training employees is key so that they understand how to use the MDM system and what the data security rules are. Regularly monitoring the MDM system's performance and making necessary improvements ensures its efficiency and compliance.

Prepare for MDM system implementation.

The future of MDM systems

MDM technology will continue to evolve to meet the growing demands of companies. It is predicted that the future of MDM systems will include integration with AI and machine learning to automate device management and data analysis. MDM systems will need to manage not only smartphones and tablets, but also a growing number of IoT devices. Increased flexibility and scalability of MDM systems will be key so that they can be easily adapted to the changing needs of companies.

The 2024 GSMA Intelligence Report[5] additionally points to the development of 5G, generative artificial intelligence and cloud computing technologies that are significantly impacting mobile device fleet management. These technologies enable more advanced monitoring, management and optimization of device fleets, which is particularly important for companies operating in industries such as transportation, logistics and retail.

The growing demand for MDM systems in companies is a response to the challenges of managing mobile devices, especially in the context of theft and cyber attacks. Systems such as Antumo MDM, enable companies to effectively manage devices, ensuring data security and compliance. As MDM technology continues to evolve, companies will be able to take advantage of increasingly sophisticated tools to manage their mobile device fleets.

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